So, You Wanna Be a Grown-Up Lawbreaker in Oklahoma? Age ain't nothin' but a number...well, not exactly
Thinking about ditching juvenile detention and graduating to the big leagues of adult court in Oklahoma? Hold your horses, slick! Age might not be everything, but it sure is a big factor when it comes to facing the music in this neck of the woods.
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| What Age Can You Be Tried As An Adult In Oklahoma |
The Straight Dope (or the Age You Actually Become an Adult)
In Oklahoma, just like most places, hitting the ripe old age of 18 means you're officially an adult. That translates to voting rights, fancy apartment leases, and the not-so-fun responsibility of facing adult consequences for your actions.
But here's the thing: Oklahoma doesn't mess around with first-degree murder. If you're a teenager and you're accused of this serious crime, then age takes a backseat.
Teen Tyrants and Murderous Minors: When Childhood Ends Abruptly
Yep, you read that right. In Oklahoma, if you're 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17 years old and you're charged with first-degree murder, you can be tried as an adult. That means no slap on the wrist and a trip to juvie hall. You're looking at the big house, bub.
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
Now hold on a sec! There's a tiny glimmer of hope for 13 and 14-year-olds. Your lawyer can argue for you to be classified as a youthful offender. This basically means you might get a lighter sentence and a chance at rehabilitation – kinda like juvie for grown-ups (but hopefully more effective!).
But beware! This youthful offender program isn't a guarantee. For teens 15-17 accused of first-degree murder, it's straight to adult court, no exceptions.
So, What's the Takeaway?
Unless you're planning a murder mystery party that gets a little out of hand (and seriously, don't do that!), reaching 18 is the age you need to worry about in Oklahoma. For anything less severe, the juvenile justice system will likely be your not-so-glamorous destination.
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
But hey, even if you can't be tried as an adult, remember – crime doesn't pay (and neither does getting shipped off to juvie). So, stay on the straight and narrow, and maybe channel your inner bad-boy (or bad-girl) energy into something a little less, well, criminal.
How To Not Get Tried as an Adult in Oklahoma: A FAQ for Rebellious Teens (and the Curious)
How to avoid trouble altogether?
Simple: Don't commit crimes! There, that wasn't so hard, was it?
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
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How to deal with anger issues before they lead to something bad?
Talk to a therapist, counselor, or trusted adult. Bottling things up never ends well.
How to find out more about the Oklahoma court system?
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
The Oklahoma State Courts website is a great resource:
How to impress your parents with your newfound knowledge of the law?
Casually drop this nugget of information at dinner: "Hey, did you know you can be tried as an adult for murder in Oklahoma as young as 13?" Prepare to be showered with questions (and maybe a little concern).
How to use this information for good?
Educate your friends about the consequences of crime. After all, an informed teenager is a less likely-to-get-into-trouble teenager!
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